Bastion leaves 'Strictly'

Ali Bastion left ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ last night, despite scoring a perfect 50.

The ‘Bill’ actress and her partner Brian Fortuna received their second perfect score from the judges this series for their American Smooth but it wasn’t enough to put them through to the final as they lost out in the public vote.

Afterwards, Ali – who shared a kiss with Brian, who she is believed to be dating - said: “It’s devastating but I feel as though we are going out on a tremendous high.”

‘BBC Breakfast’ sports presenter Chris Hollins and his dance partner Ola Jordan will face ‘Hollyoaks’ actor Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe in next week’s final.

After Ali and Brian completed their American Smooth, judge Bruno Tonioli said: “The ballroom dazzler is back on top form – you showed us the best of your qualities... radiant.”

Before the phone vote was opened up to the public, Chris – who scored 80 out of a possible 100 for his Argentine Waltz and Rumba with Ola – admitted he thought he was heading for the exit.

He said: “Ginger (Ali) and Fred (Ricky) over there are pretty difficult to beat. We thought we might come third. We’ve had a great time.”